Shoulder Bursitis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

What is shoulder bursitis? Definition and understanding of bursitis

Shoulder bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac in the shoulder that reduces friction between the bones and tendons of the shoulder. The condition causes pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy can help with treatment.

Symptoms of shoulder bursitis: From pain to reduced mobility

Shoulder bursitis can manifest itself in several ways, and symptoms can vary in intensity. Common symptoms include:

• Shoulder pain: This is often the most prominent symptom. The pain can be sharp or dull and is often worsened by movement or pressure on the shoulder.
• Swelling and tenderness: The affected area may swell and feel tender to the touch.
• Limited mobility: You may experience difficulty moving your arm, especially when you try to lift it outward or overhead.
• Stiffness: The shoulder may feel stiff, especially in the morning or after extended periods of inactivity.
• Warmth: The inflamed area may feel warm to the touch.
• Pain that worsens at night: Many people experience increased pain when lying on the affected shoulder.

Bursitis can also cause pain in the arm, especially when you raise your arm to shoulder height or higher. In some cases, the bursa can become so swollen that it is visible under the skin. Long-term problems can lead to reduced function of the shoulder joint and affect everyday activities. The condition is sometimes confused with impingement because the symptoms can be similar.

Causes of shoulder bursitis: Risk factors and effects on bursae

Several factors can contribute to the development of shoulder bursitis:

• Overuse: Repetitive movements or prolonged strain on the shoulder can irritate the bursa.
• Injury or trauma: A direct blow to the shoulder or a fall can cause inflammation of the bursa.
• Infection: In rare cases, a bacterial infection can lead to bursitis.
• Underlying diseases: Certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can increase the risk of bursitis.
• Age: The risk of bursitis increases with age as the tissues become less elastic.
• Poor posture: Long-term incorrect posture can increase the strain on the shoulder bursa.

Bursitis, also known as bursitis, is not unique to the shoulder and can occur in other joints such as the knee, hip, or elbow. Bursitis of the hip often occurs on the outside of the hip and causes similar symptoms. When structures around the bursa (bursa) are repeatedly stressed, especially tendons that are nearby, the inflammation can develop and worsen over time.

Diagnosis and treatment of shoulder bursitis

Shoulder bursitis occurs when the bursa — the fluid-filled cushion that protects the joints — becomes irritated or inflamed. This often leads to pain, swelling, and stiffness with movement. Rest, heat, cold, and gradual rehabilitation are needed to relieve the discomfort and restore normal function.

Rest and relief

Reduce the strain on the shoulder through rest and gentle movement.

AxelKomforten™ provides stable support and reduces pressure on the inflamed bursa during the healing period.

Cold and heat therapy

Cold helps reduce swelling and inflammation, while heat improves blood circulation and relieves stiffness.

Termoreliever™ offers both cold and heat therapy, making it effective for alternating pain and stiffness.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

If needed, anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain and inflammation.

The combination with heat therapy can reduce the need for stronger medication.

Physiotherapy

Light exercises under the supervision of a physiotherapist help regain strength and mobility in the shoulder joint.

Shoulder Comfort™ supports the shoulder during exercises and prevents overload.

Conclusion

Shoulder bursitis can be a painful and limiting condition, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people can experience significant improvements. By combining traditional treatment methods with innovative aids such as AxelKomforten™ and Termoreliever™, many people can effectively manage their symptoms and regain normal shoulder function. It is important to listen to your body's signals and seek professional help if symptoms persist or worsen. See also how you can prevent tense shoulders and neck through good posture and adapted exercise.

For many, bursitis is a recurring problem, and therefore preventive measures are just as important as acute treatment. By using the right technique during physical activities, avoiding overload, and regularly strengthening the muscles around the shoulder, the risk of future inflammations can be significantly reduced.